Great Northern Fire Crew

What should I be doing NOW after I apply?

If you are serious about getting into a wildland fire program, you should already be working diligently towards improving your physical conditioning. If selected, show up in good condition with the expectations to improve your conditioning. We suggest that you arrive with fire boots broken-in and be ready to spend the first week in the field learning techniques involved in wildland firefighting!

Having a passport is a plus as this exciting opportunity sometimes includes firefighting across national borders.

You can never be too fit for wildland firefighting!

At a minimum, you should be working on your strength and cardiovascular conditioning with exercises comprised of weight training, push-ups, sit-ups and a combination of running and hiking. You may wish to consult a physician prior to beginning a fitness regime.

The Work Capacity Test (aka Pack Test) and the satisfactory completion of a comprehensive medical exam are the minimum physical qualification for a wildland fire position. However, you should not consider the Pack Test your only target for physical conditioning needed to fight wildland fires.

Many firefighters have found the FireFit Program helps prepare them for pre-season conditioning.

The Great Northern Fire Crew will be available to fight fires throughout the nation in all kinds of environments. Our fires in the West are typically in steep, mountainous terrain and at high altitudes. You should be attempting to prepare yourself for these types of assignments. If you would like more information on the types of fitness training that you should be considering, you may contact us for further suggestions.

If you are selected for any fire crew, you will need the items on this Personal Gear list. Keep fit and contact us for the next fire season.

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USDA Forest Service - Northern Region
Last Modified: Wednesday, 17 March 2010 at 15:33:02 EDT